SLB, Subsea7 partner with C-Power to explore ocean energy solutions for subsea applications

SLB has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with C-Power through its OneSubsea joint venture (JV) to, together with Subsea7, explore using ocean energy as a lower-cost, lower-carbon power source for subsea applications.

SLB OneSubsea, the JV backed by SLB, Aker Solutions, and Subsea7, will provide an integrated solution for the project, including an electric actuation system and wireless telemetry system, for an 18-month field test of C-Power’s SeaRAY autonomous offshore power system (AOPS). The project is supported by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

C-Power CEO, Reenst Lesemann, said: “Subsea Integration Alliance partners SLB OneSubsea and Subsea 7 are world leaders in providing essential subsea products and services. They share our vision for remote power generation and data communications that reduce the cost, complexity, and carbon intensity of offshore operations.” 

The test will take place at the PacWave South wave energy site offshore Newport, Oregon, to assess the system’s long-term reliability in challenging ocean conditions.

According to SLB, the joint industry project will gather data from sources such as autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), robotics, operational equipment, and satellite communications. The data will be used to explore potential applications of wave energy in subsea operations, focusing on digitalization, electrification, and fiber optic sensors.

“Collaboration and innovation are key to delivering step-changes in cost and carbon efficiencies at-scale for a sustainable energy future,” added Mads Hjelmeland, CEO of SLB OneSubsea. 

“Joint industry projects like this one provide a unique opportunity to combine the domain expertise and technical portfolios of our organizations to accelerate technology adoption, safely and efficiently.”

C-Power AOPS is a system that provides in-situ power, energy storage, and real-time data and communications support for offshore applications, including data-gathering equipment, operating equipment, uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), and AUVs. 

In June, Scotland’s Green Marine (UK) joined the C-Power’s Partner Engagement and Co-development (PEC) program, aiming to advance AOPS.